A TA10 form is a document used during the process of buying or selling residential property. It forms part of the contract pack and outlines what fixtures and fittings are included in the property sale.
As the seller, you will need to complete the TA10 form at the beginning of the conveyancing process.
The Importance of a TA10 Form in Property Transactions
It is a legal requirement to fill in a TA10 form and it provides a significant role.
The form defines exactly what is (and isn’t) included in the sale. This aims to prevent misunderstanding and disputes later in the process.
It also helps with valuation and pricing. The inclusion or exclusion of items can affect the amount the buyer is willing to offer.
What Are Fixtures and Fittings?
People are often confused about the different between fixtures and fittings. Here explains the difference:
Fixtures
Fixtures are items that are ‘fixed’ to the property in such a way that they become part of the property itself. These items are immovable and come included in the sale unless otherwise specified. Examples of fixtures include:
- Built-in furniture: Wardrobes, cupboards, and bookcases that are fixed to walls.
- Kitchen units: Cabinets, countertops, and built-in appliances.
- Bathroom fittings: Sinks, bathtubs, showers, and toilets.
- Central heating systems: Boilers, radiators, and thermostats.
- Light fittings: Chandeliers, ceiling lights, and wall-mounted lights.
- Other fixed items: Doors, windows, fireplaces, and fitted carpets.
Fittings (or Chattels)
Fittings, also known as chattels, are items you can remove without causing damage. In most cases, these items are not included in the sale, unless explicitly agreed upon. Examples of fittings include:
- Furniture: Sofas, chairs, tables, and beds.
- Curtains and blinds: These can often be easily removed.
- Freestanding appliances: Washing machines, fridge/freezers, and microwaves.
- Decorative items: Mirrors, paintings, and other wall hangings that are not fixed.
- Portable items: Lamps, rugs, and outdoor furniture.
When to Fill in the TA10 Form
When you instruct a conveyancing solicitor, they will send you a conveyancing contract pack.
It will include a TA6 form, TA7 form and the TA10 form (amongst other paperwork).
You need to fill in these forms as soon as possible to avoid any unnecessary delays.
How to Fill in a TA10 Fixtures and Fittings From
The TA10 form has a number of sections you need to fill in.
Property Details
- The address of the property
- The names of the seller(s)
- The name, address, and email of your solicitor
- Their reference number
Fixtures and Fittings
This part of the form is broken down into tables and you will need to tick to say whether an item is either:
- Included
- Excluded, or
- Does not exist.
You can also add a price for any items you would like to sell or add any comments.
The first part of the fixtures and fittings form is for ‘Basic Fittings’ which includes items such as the boiler, light switches, roof insulation, windows etc.
The rest of the form is broken down by;
- Kitchen
- Bathroom
- Carpets
- Curtain and curtain rails
- Light fittings
- Fitted units
- Outdoor area
- Television and telephone
- Stock of fuel
- Other items
When selling a property, remember, you can take or leave whatever you want.
If you want to remove a fitted wardrobe or curtain poles, you can. There is not an etiquette that dictates what you should or should not leave.
That said, when removing items, especially fitted items, you should consider;
- How removing them will affect the value of the property – For example, if you remove fitted wardrobes, the buyer might want to renegotiate the sale price.
- Whether you will use them in your new property – You might love the curtains in your current property, but will you really like them the same in your new home?
If you do remove anything that is fitted, you should repair the wall or area you are taking it from. This includes filling holes etc.
Selling a Property?
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Fixtures and Fittings Affect Stamp Duty?
Stamp duty applies to fixtures as these are integral to the property. These include kitchen cabinets etc.
It does not apply to fittings, or chattels. The word ‘chattel’ is an old legal word which means tangible, movable property. This includes, furniture, accessories like mirrors and other property.
Is a TA10 Form Legally Binding?
The TA10 form becomes a legally binding document as soon as you exchange contracts with the buyer. If you take an item that the TA10 form says you should have left, the buyer of the property might make a legal claim against you in the future.